Portrait Sessions

▪️ A non-refundable $50 deposit is required to hold your appointment. This policy is in place to deter “no-shows”. Rescheduling is always an option, at no additional cost. If you choose to CANCEL rather than reschedule, your deposit is then forfeited.
▪️ Prepayment Discount: A $25 prepayment discount is available if your session is paid in full one week prior to session.
▪️ Location Fees: If the location of your choice charges a fee that fee is due along with your deposit. Once this amount is paid in full I will make the arrangements with the location. Location fees are in addition to your session fee.
▪️ You will receive a contract to sign and an invoice for your deposit upon appointment confirmation. Your final balance is due in full prior to your session.
▪️ Average Session Length is 30 – 60 minutes: I book you for an hour, but I do not set a timer. You have me until you and I are both satisfied with the images we’ve captured together, whether that means we are over or under on the time.
▪️ Galleries are typically delivered within 1-2 weeks, I will do my best to communicate any potential delays.
▪️ Editing Style: I would describe my style as vibrant, featuring true-to-life, bold colors.
▪️ Ask about current promotions & recurring discounts.

FAQ’s:

How many photos will I get? The number of finished images in your gallery will depend on the number or people in your group, location/outfit changes, and session length. You can expect at least 10 images for a 1 hour session, usually more like 30+ (sometimes much more!) I take tons of photos at your session, but then I do my best to narrow it down to the BEST options and keep it to a manageable number. You might think you want them all, but trust me: 60+ images makes it so much more difficult to choose your favorites!

Is an hour long enough? It’s usually more than enough for seniors and average sized families. Though I state that sessions are “one hour”, I do not set a timer. You have me until you and I are both satisfied with the images we’ve captured together, whether that means we are over or under on the time. I would however recommend booking an extended session for especially large groups (8+) as it definitely will take longer to get all the the individual photos, smaller groups, and the ultimate large group shots. Contact me with details.

Do you ever offer “Mini Sessions”? Sometimes. Response to these sessions has not been great, and I frequently have no-show or last minute cancellations. My biggest struggle is finding locations to host these. But I will jump at the chance to host minis as opportunities arise! Check here for upcoming events, and feel free to make suggestions.

Do you have a studio? I prefer to shoot outdoors in natural light settings. But I do however have portable studio equipment and an available space that I can set up by request with enough notice (or at your location for an additional charge – it takes time to transport, set up, and tear down).

Do you do weddings? I have done a few, but it’s not my specialty, nor my favorite. And you deserve someone who is ALL-IN on your wedding day! I would be happy to refer you to another local photographer who specializes in this genre! Please email me and I will send you some information! And please keep me in mind for any other Special Event photography needs.

How far will you travel? Marcellus Photo Etc provides services in Madison County “and surrounding areas”. This typically means communities closely on the edge of Madison County (such as Sherburne & Otselic in Chenango County, and Waterville & Sylvan Beach in Oneida County). Madison County is located halfway between the cities of Syracuse & Utica, and I have been known to travel to either of these as well. Contact me if the location you would prefer to use is outside of Madison County, and if there are any additional fees we will agree upon them in advance. Factors to consider include: distance, weather conditions, holiday/season, etc.

Do you accept payment online?
In addition to cash or personal checks (made out to either Sarah Marcellus or Marcellus Photo Etc) I am able to accept credit cards through my website, plus Venmo, Paypal, or Zelle as follows:
Venmo: https://venmo.com/MarcellusPhoto
PayPal: PayPal.Me/SarahMarcellus
Zelle: 315-396-6726
Be sure to include your full name in the comments if the account is under a name I would not recognize. Thank you!